At a Glance
- Tasks: Support global training and evaluation of a novel poliovirus diagnostic tool.
- Company: Join a world-leading institution dedicated to science for humanity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 41 days off, generous pension, and career development support.
- Other info: Flexible working options and opportunities for international travel.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in global health and contribute to polio eradication efforts.
- Qualifications: PhD in molecular biology or related field with experience in infectious disease methods.
The predicted salary is between 65073 - 65073 £ per year.
Location: White City Campus (Hybrid)
About the role:
We are seeking a postdoctoral associate or research fellow to support the rollout and evaluation of a novel diagnostic and sequencing tool for poliovirus, enabling rapid outbreak detection and genomic surveillance. The post is funded by the Gates Foundation and focuses on training laboratories globally in poliovirus direct detection and nanopore sequencing, optimisation of laboratory methods for the detection of poliovirus, and support for implementation across the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) laboratory network.
What you would be doing:
The successful candidate will contribute to the continued development and validation of direct detection methods for both stool and wastewater samples, helping to improve sensitivity and robustness. They will also support the expansion of direct molecular testing approaches to additional enteric pathogens of public health importance, building on the existing poliovirus platform. A major component of the role will involve leading international training activities, including the development of training materials, delivery of workshops, and provision of ongoing technical support to collaborating laboratories. The postholder will work closely with partner laboratories to troubleshoot implementation challenges, evaluate performance, and support the adoption of new laboratory and sequencing workflows.
You will work closely with the polio team in the Vaccine Epidemiology Research Group and have access to excellent peer support from other members of the Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology. You will also collaborate with teams from the Polio Sequencing Consortium, GPEI, and with staff at the Gates Foundation. The post would suit someone with experience in both delivering training in laboratory methods and performing molecular biology techniques, with a particular interest in next-generation sequencing technologies. Experience in assay development, method optimisation, environmental surveillance, or pathogen genomics would be advantageous. You will be expected to undertake periodic international travel, produce high-quality research outputs, submit publications to scientific journals, attend and present at conferences, and engage with researchers, laboratory partners, and policy-makers relevant to the field.
Duties and Responsibilities
- To support training in and delivery of poliovirus direct detection and nanopore sequencing (DDNS) in laboratories in Africa and Asia
- To contribute to the development and validation of novel molecular surveillance methods for pathogens
- To prepare next-generation sequencing libraries for the Oxford Nanopore platform and to analyse epidemiological and sequence data
- To submit publications to online archives and peer-reviewed journals
- To work effectively with other members of the research group and with our national and international partners
What we are looking for:
For appointment at Research Fellow level, candidates should be able to demonstrate increasing research independence, evidenced by a strong publication record and experience leading aspects of research projects. The successful candidate will be expected to provide scientific leadership for components of the programme, drive methodological innovation in direct detection and sequencing approaches, supervise junior staff and students, coordinate activities with international collaborators and stakeholders, and contribute to the development of new research directions and funding opportunities. They will play a key role in shaping the future expansion of the platform for environmental surveillance and enteric pathogen detection.
Essential Requirements:
You should hold a PhD in molecular biology, laboratory medicine or a similar laboratory discipline and have a track history of developing and implementing molecular methods for infectious disease surveillance or diagnosis.
What we can offer you:
The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity. Grow your career: gain access to Imperial's sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression. As a member of research staff you have 10 development days to use to develop your skills and explore your career prospects. Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days off a year and generous pension schemes). Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.
Further Information:
Please note that this is a PhD level role but candidates who have not yet been officially awarded will be appointed as a Research Assistant. This role is offered on a full time, fixed term basis until 31st December 2027 in the first instance. Imperial College is supportive of flexible working. Imperial is happy to discuss the possibility of implementing such arrangements for this post, with suitably qualified people, subject to operational requirements.
Research Associate / Fellow in London employer: Imperial College London
Imperial College London is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research in infectious disease surveillance at the White City Campus. With a strong focus on employee development, you will benefit from dedicated career support, generous leave, and a collaborative work culture that values diversity and inclusion. Join us to make a meaningful impact while advancing your career in a world-leading institution committed to science for humanity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate / Fellow in London
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We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate / Fellow in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show Imperial College London that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at Imperial College London.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that Imperial College London does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Imperial College London
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at Imperial College London. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
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Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into Imperial College London's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at Imperial College London. This shows your passion for the industry!
